Adjusting to the New Normal: Exploring Alternative Learning Strategies for Devcom Students

Abstract

People, having individual learning style preferences as well as capabilities and resources for learning, process information differently. Effectivity of the learning process or students’ academic performance is often affected by these factors. Students enrolled in higher education institutions today belong to a generation cohort whose learning and communication behavior is dependent on interactive technology and are not always comfortable with traditional information transfer. In addressing these problems, the study implemented action research on the use of Blended Learning (BL) approach, utilizing different modalities such as web-based learning management systems, recorded video lectures, games, and face-to-face lectures, to deliver selected Development Communication subjects for 2nd semester of A.Y. 2019-2020. The approach integrated synchronous traditional classroom meetings with asynchronous online activities/assessments which lets students learn at their own pace and choose what requirements they want to do first. Before the second half of the academic semester when the action research was implemented, the COVID-19 pandemic forced educational institutions in the Philippines to wrap up early. The objectives of the study were then modified to include determining alternative teaching and learning strategies for DevCom students given the “new normal”. Using the data from the BL approach, a Flexible Learning Strategy was formulated which categorized students based on their resources and capabilities for different learning modes.